Notable graduates: Craig Kohn — A passion for agricultural education

In the process of applying for grants to conduct his own environmental research, Craig Kohn was asked to take the lead on implementing an environmental education program through the Wisconsin Future Farmers of America (FFA) Association.

Unenthusiastic at first, Kohn soon discovered his passion for education.

"The initial disappointment of having to drop the research project was outweighed by how much I enjoy teaching," says Kohn. "I felt that my work would be more beneficial if I could create future ecological researchers rather than continue my own research."

Kohn assumed full control of the program and conducted Wisconsin's first-ever Environmental and Natural Resources State Competition, held at the Alliant Energy Center during the Wisconsin State FFA Convention. He also conducted educational workshops and sought contributions and ideas from the state's agricultural instructors and UW-Madison students and faculty.

"At the competition, we try to incorporate things like soil science, water quality, air quality, wildlife identification and so on. It's a test of high school students' knowledge but also shows that they really care about the environment," says Kohn.

Kohn continues to ensure the program reflects ideas of sustainable use, and his success can be measured by recognition from the Wisconsin Legislature, the University of Wisconsin System and multiple agricultural agencies. He will graduate with degrees in both agricultural and educational science as well as acquiring two teaching certificates.

In addition to a hectic schedule of student teaching and program-coordinating, Kohn spends 10 to 20 hours per week as one of UW-Madison's Bucky Badger mascots. After completing his program in six years, which is typically finished in seven, Kohn plans on residing in the Madison area and continuing his work with the FFA.